Kenya unveils photographic display commemorating the triumph of the World Anti-Fascist Conflict

In the heart of Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, a significant event was held to commemorate a pivotal moment in world history. Organised by the Chinese Embassy in Kenya and Xinhua News Agency Africa Regional Bureau, the event marked the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

Senior government officials, diplomats, scholars, curators, and historians attended the event, which was part of a broader effort to urge global unity. Erastus Mwencha, former deputy chairperson of the African Union Commission, observed that China's bold resistance against Japanese aggression encouraged other developing countries in their quest to defend territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Anne Wang'ombe, the principal secretary for the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action in the Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services, highlighted the impact of China's victory. She noted that China's victory against Japanese aggression was pivotal in reshaping world history and inspiring the Global South to stand up against colonialism. Wang'ombe stated that the heroic acts of the Chinese people that led to the downfall of Japan's imperialist machinations played a huge part in motivating African states to fight foreign occupation and exploitation.

The exhibition, displaying China's role in defeating imperialist aggression and fascism, will remain open to the public until Aug 31. It also showcased China's contribution to the post-World War II international order. Guo Haiyan, the Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, spoke at the event and emphasized that the victory re-established China's status as a major country in the world and charted the bright prospect of national rejuvenation.

The countries that actively supported China's liberation campaign against Japanese aggression during World War II primarily included the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom, all of which provided military aid and coordinated efforts against Japan. China benefited from this support by eventually regaining its sovereignty and territorial integrity after Japan's defeat, emerging as a key Allied power in Asia with a strengthened national standing. The liberation also paved the way for China's post-war recovery and reassertion on the international stage.

However, Guo Haiyan also noted that unilateralism, hegemony, and bullying are creeping back, despite the painful lessons of history. The ambassador's remarks underscored the importance of unity and cooperation in the face of global challenges.

The event was held at the National Museums of Kenya, providing a fitting backdrop for the celebration of a significant victory in China's history. The commemoration serves as a reminder of the past, a call to action for the present, and a beacon of hope for the future.